Here at SAE Institute, we pride ourselves on our faculty and instructors who are not only talented professionals with real-life industry experience, but who are also passionate about sharing their wealth of knowledge with our students.

This week we’re putting the spotlight on SAE Institute New York’s Student Success Manager, Mike Guerriero, who aims to inspire students and provide guidance through his extensive music industry experience.

Follow along as he shares more about his background, what he’s working on now, and the advice that he has for students.

Tell us a little about your background and experience.

I’ve been fortunate to work in both the business and creative sides of the music industry. On the business front, I’ve worked for Billboard Magazine, Atlantic Records, Warner Bros. Records, and have also done A&R for an imprint of Columbia Records. In addition, I have managed several successful music studios in New York City, most recently Studio 17 in Bushwick, the home of the late, great, Pop Smoke. 

As a songwriter and producer, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of artists, including Noah Cyrus, Birdy, Mishaal, Shontelle, Rockwilder, U-God of Wu Tang, Powfu, Laura White, KDrew, and wrote the #1 Billboard Dance Hit, “How Can I Be Falling” by Jennifer Green. 

what are you working oN  right now that you can tell us about?

I am currently working with a broad range of talented artists. 

What’s been your favorite part about working with students?

I love being able to share my knowledge and experiences from the field with the aim of elevating and inspiring others. Engineers, producers, songwriters, and artists are my kindred spirits, and the students at SAE embody the very characteristics that inspire me.

Why do you think formal training is important in this industry?

What I love about SAE is the diverse range of knowledge and experiences our instructors bring to the table. They possess a wealth of expertise in various areas, which enriches our learning environment. The curriculum we follow is not only relevant but also ensures that our students are well-prepared for the field of audio engineering. As an integral part of an artist’s success, an audio engineer holds great significance and working with the next generation of talented engineering professionals at SAE brings me immense fulfillment.

What advice do you have for students who are thinking about pursuing music?

Let your passion ignite within you. Dive deep into your innermost being and ask yourself, “What stirs my soul?” “What do I firmly believe in?” and “What do I aspire to contribute to the world?” 

Music, an intangible art form, possesses an extraordinary ability to transform minds, elevate spirits, and at its core, evoke pure joy. From my perspective, there is no greater gift than the power to make others feel good through the magic of music.

For more information about our Audio program, visit us online. To connect with the New York campus, email us at newyork@sae.edu or give us a call at 212-944-9121.